Naval information card on a snowy lakeside: 'WARM-UP LAP' with 'Cross-Country Skiing at HanslTeich,' distance, time, difficulty, and starting point; plus a circular photo of two people on the right.

Anyone who wants to try cross-country skiing, get back into it after a break, or warm up before a longer tour will find that at the Hansl pond at Gutenbrunn A particularly easy-to-navigate loop. The official warm-up loop winds through the open woods around the pond and is marked as an easy, classic-style trail.

With an official length of 2.05 kilometers, a duration of about 29 minutes, and only slight changes in elevation, it is significantly shorter than the Three Lakes Trail. This makes it a great place to test out equipment and techniques, build confidence on skis, or just ski a few relaxed runs.

Important: Even a short cross-country trail can only be used if it is open and groomed. The trail information page notes that the warm-up loop is covered with machine-made snow whenever possible. This is not a guarantee of continuous operation. Please check the current trail report immediately before you start.

The Warm-up Round at a Glance

  • Tour Type: Classic Cross-Country Loop
  • Start and Finish: Hanslteich
  • Official length: 2.05 kilometers
  • Technically calculated GPX length: approximately 2.04 kilometers
  • Duration: about 29 minutes
  • Ascent: 27 meters
  • Descent: 11 meters in elevation
  • Lowest point: 913 meters
  • Highest point: 939 meters
  • Difficulty: easy
  • Fitness Level: 1 of 6
  • Surroundings: Hanslteich and open forest
  • Grooming: when conditions permit; using machine-made snow when possible
  • GPX file: available at the end of the post

The current details page lists 2.05 kilometers. In the general trail overview, the warm-up route is still listed as 2.5 kilometers. For the map and GPX file, we use the more precise figure from the details page: Calculating the 61 GPX waypoints yields approximately 2.04 kilometers, thus confirming the 2.05 kilometers listed on the tour page.

Why the warm-up round is a good way to start

A short practice run has several advantages. Beginners don't have to commit to a long run right away. They can test their boots, bindings, skis, and poles under real-world conditions. Anyone who feels unsure can quickly return to the starting point.

Even experienced cross-country skiers benefit from this warm-up lap. Before a longer tour, it’s a good way to gently get your circulation and muscles going. At the same time, it helps you determine whether your skis and wax are suited to the snow and temperature conditions.

The warm-up round is especially suitable for:

  • Beginners with an introductory session
  • People Returning to Work After a Long Break
  • Guests who would like to test their equipment
  • Families with children who are experienced cross-country skiers
  • Older, active guests with good balance
  • athletic cross-country skiers for warming up or cooling down
  • People who prefer to run several short laps

However, the official „easy“ rating does not mean that no technique is required. Standing securely, braking in a controlled manner, and being considerate of others are all part of the experience, even on a short ride.

Start at Hanslteich

The start and finish are right by Hanslteich. This small forest pond is a peaceful natural spot southwest of Gutenbrunn and provides a particularly picturesque setting for the short cross-country ski trail.

A trail leads from the Gutenbrunn vacation rentals to Hanslteich. This trail is shown as a dashed line on our GPS map and is not included in the official 2.05-kilometer route. Whether the access path is passable on foot or suitable for cross-country skiing in winter depends on snow conditions, snow removal, and current trail openings. Please do not follow any tracks across areas that are not officially open.

Before you start, it's a good idea to do a quick equipment check:

  • Do the boots and bindings fit properly?
  • Are these skis and poles suitable for classic-style skiing?
  • Are the clothes warm, but not too thick?
  • Is the cell phone charged enough?
  • Is the round officially open?
  • Are the signs and the direction of travel clear?

You should take it slow during the first few minutes. A gentle diagonal stride is better than starting too fast.

Route of the short cross-country ski trail

The GPX track describes a compact loop west and northwest of Hanslteich. It runs through open forest and over terrain with only moderate elevation changes. The elevation difference between the lowest and highest points is 26 meters.

The official description does not list any specific waypoints. Therefore, the on-site markings are what matter most. At intersections, you should not automatically follow the widest or freshest track, as there are connections to longer trails in the area.

The GPS file helps with navigation but is not a substitute for signage. Trail groomers may adjust the route based on snow conditions. Therefore, a temporary deviation from the GPX line is possible.

One round or more?

One lap is often enough for your first few attempts. After that, you can take your time deciding whether to do a second lap. If you feel confident, you can run the course several times, focusing on specific technical aspects each time.

A simple exercise routine might look like this:

First Round: Start Off Calmly

Ski slowly and deliberately. Make sure you have a secure footing, breathe evenly, and keep your shoulders relaxed. The goal isn't speed, but rather a good feel for your skis and the trail.

Round 2: Improving Gliding

Try gliding briefly on one ski after each step. Keep your movements small and controlled. Avoid frantic steps.

Round 3: Watch for the use of the stick

Hold the poles close to your body and use them in a controlled manner. Your arms should support the movement without tensing your shoulders and neck.

Riding multiple laps only makes sense as long as your technique and concentration remain steady. Fatigue increases the risk of a fall.

Classic Cross-Country Skiing on the Warm-up Lap

The official regional guide lists the warm-up route as a classic cross-country trail. In the classic style, skiers glide with their skis largely parallel in groomed tracks. For beginners, this technique is usually easier to master than skating.

The most important basic movements are:

  • A stable stance with knees slightly bent
  • Shifting weight from one ski to the other
  • diagonal arm and leg openings
  • controlled glide phase
  • Double-deck push on flat sections
  • Plow brake or controlled veering off the track

Anyone trying cross-country skiing for the first time will benefit from expert instruction. Upon request, the regional guide also mentions a cross-country skiing coach at Gasthof Marschall Stuben. Availability and schedules must be checked directly.

Artificial snow is no guarantee of snow

The ski tour page explains that the trail is covered with machine-made snow whenever possible. This can help keep the trail open when temperatures are right. However, artificial snowmaking requires sufficient cold, water, time, and suitable conditions.

Therefore, the wording should not be interpreted to mean that the cross-country ski trail is open throughout the entire winter. Thawing, rain, storms, or significant temperature fluctuations can affect trail conditions.

Before each use, you should check:

  • Is the warm-up lap currently open?
  • Was it freshly prepared?
  • Are there any icy or thin spots?
  • Are there any detours or road closures?
  • Is the classic track available in its entirety?
  • What will the weather be like during the planned time?

Safety and Consideration on the Cross-Country Ski Trail

Even on a short loop, the basic international rules for cross-country skiers apply:

  • do not endanger or obstruct other people
  • Pay attention to markings, the direction of travel, and barriers
  • On multi-lane cross-country trails, stay as far to the right as possible
  • When encountering other vehicles, move to the right
  • Allow faster runners to pass you in a controlled manner
  • Hold your poles close to your body when near other people
  • Adjust your speed to your skill level, visibility, and snow conditions
  • Step completely out of the lane to pause
  • Clear the track as quickly as possible after a fall
  • Provide assistance in the event of an accident

Pedestrians, Dogs, Bicycles and sleds damage a groomed cross-country ski trail and can create dangerous bumps. They are only allowed on the trail when expressly permitted.

Taking the Kids for a Warm-Up Lap

The short length generally makes the trail more family-friendly than a long one. However, it is only suitable for children if their equipment, height, balance, and motivation are all appropriate.

Children should not be rushed while running. Frequent short breaks, playful exercises, and warm gloves are more important than the distance covered. A child must be allowed to stop at any time without being scolded.

Young children with no cross-country skiing experience must be accompanied by an experienced adult. The cross-country trail is not a winter playground; sledding and running around on the trail should be avoided.

Is this route suitable for seniors?

Active seniors with good mobility and a steady sense of balance can use this short loop as a pleasant way to get started. However, cross-country skiing engages the cardiovascular system, coordination, and many muscle groups at the same time.

If you have taken a long break from exercise, have cardiovascular conditions, experience dizziness, have acute joint pain, or are unsure of your own physical limits, you should consult a doctor beforehand. Start slowly and don’t try to keep up with others.

Gear for a Short Ride

Even for a two-kilometer run, you need the right gear:

  • Classic cross-country skis suited to your body weight and skill level
  • Compatible boots and bindings
  • Cross-country ski poles of the appropriate length
  • Breathable clothing based on the layering principle
  • Gloves, a beanie, or a headband
  • Sports glasses or sunglasses
  • cell phone
  • a little something to drink when it's cold
  • Dry spare gloves, if needed

Wearing clothes that are too warm quickly leads to heavy sweating. Several thin layers are easier to adjust than a heavy winter jacket.

Trail Fees and Equipment Rental

The official regional website currently lists the following prices:

  • Day pass: 5 euros per person
  • Weekly pass: 15 euros per person
  • Children 15 and under: free

At Hanslteich, there is a ticket machine that accepts only coins. According to the region's website, other ticket locations include the Gasthof Marschall Stuben and the Pension Seewolf.

The Gasthof Marschall Stuben and the Pension Seewolf are also listed as places to rent cross-country skiing equipment. Prices, hours of operation, available sizes, and payment terms are subject to change. Please verify all details immediately before your stay. This summary is current as of August 16, 2026.

Is the warm-up lap accessible?

No. The cross-country ski trail is not barrier-free. Snow, cross-country skiing equipment, and the terrain require balance, coordination, and the necessary physical agility.

You must not walk on Hanslteich in the winter simply because it is covered with a solid layer of ice. An ice surface is safe to use only if it has been expressly approved for use.

Map showing a 2.04 km warm-up running loop around Hanssteich in Gutenberg, with a blue route line and a starting marker near the Hanssteich light area.

Winter Vacation at the Gutenbrunn Vacation Rentals

From the Gutenbrunn vacation rentals, you can easily reach the starting area at Hanslteich without a long drive. This short loop is ideal for your first day of vacation, for testing out rented equipment, or as preparation for the Three-Lakes Trail.

After cross-country skiing, you can return to your vacation rental, change into dry clothes, and wind down the winter day in peace.

You can check availability and book your stay directly here:

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